Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."